Brown County Climate
Brown County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
43.5°F
Annual Precip
22.4"
Annual Snowfall
39.7"
Extreme Heat Days
12
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,502
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Brown County
Climate Verdict
Brown County has a cool, averaging 43.5°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 22.4 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 12.350000000000001 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 39.7 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 11.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.9°F. Residents experience a substantial 60°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Brown County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Brown County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F.
Climate Profile
About Brown County Weather
Cold Northern Reach of the Plains
Brown County averages 43.5°F annually, placing it nearly 10 degrees below the national median of 53°F. It is a classic northern plains environment with 22.4 inches of annual precipitation.
Below the South Dakota Norm
The county stays 2.1 degrees cooler than the South Dakota average of 45.6°F. It is consistently among the coldest counties in the state, especially when Arctic air masses descend from the north.
Cold Air and Average Snowfall
Brown's 39.7 inches of annual snow is higher than Brookings County's 35.8 inches. Total precipitation is 22.4 inches, which is almost identical to the South Dakota state average.
Brutal Januarys and Mild Julys
Winter is the dominant season, with January temperatures averaging a frigid 11.9°F. Summer brings relief with a July average of 71.9°F and only 12 days exceeding 90°F.
A Focus on Winter Survival
Homeowners need top-tier insulation and reliable heating to survive the 11.9°F January average. Snow removal is a major part of life, as the county receives nearly 40 inches of snowfall annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.